Benton County

Benton County Conservation (BCCB) welcomes you to our quiet and serene natural areas, hiking and river trails, and
campgrounds offer outstanding recreational opportunities.
The (BCCB) also provides conservation assistance to local residents, and naturalist environmental education to our local schools. We can suggest parks, campgrounds or natural
areas for you to explore. The BCCB started in 1956 with Hannen Lake park, one of Iowa's first county parks. We are also building a new nature center as seen to the right.

Activities in Benton County

The Cedar River: The slow moving Cedar River enters the county from the north (Blackhawk County) and exits to the south (Linn County), providing ample opportunities for an extended camping/fishing trip using canoes, kayaks, and fishing boats.
Hiking: If you would rather walk or hike, then Benton County is the perfect destination with many miles of trails available. The Cedar Valley Nature Trail (from Cedar Rapids to near Waterloo) crosses through Benton County near Urbana and offers more than 50 miles of quiet hiking and biking. The Old Creamery Nature Trail traverses 15 miles of farm fields, quiet forested woods, and gorgeous wildflowers between Vinton-Garrison-Dysart.

EVENTS VINTON

Farmers Market (May-Oct) - Every Thursday at 5:00pm at the old Train Station. Fresh vegetables, fruit, pies, and other tasty treats.

Party-in-the-Park (June) - A wholesome family fun-filled extravaganza begins on Thursday with a children's parade and carnival, extending through the weekend with food, fun, musical entertainment, and concluding Saturday night with an amazing fireworks demonstration.

Boomtown (August) - Vinton is the new home for The Iowa Pyrotechnics Association annual fireworks gathering. The IPA members launch their experimental fireworks on the Benton County Fairgrounds. Check out Boomtown!

Facilities in Benton County

Various facilities located within the Benton County park system include: Nature Center, campgrounds, open shelters, camping, cabins, boat ramps, playgrounds, disc golf course, boat ramps and several river accesses for non-motorized boaters.

Related Items

Vinton Unlimited
Our mission is to foster economic growth and community improvement, and to promote the Vinton area as an attractive place to live, shop, work and play!

Vinton Parks and Recreation
The Vinton Parks & Recreation Department offers a large selection of youth and adult recreational and leisure time activities along with special programs for people with disabilities.